๐๐ฎ๐ซ๐ ๐๐ฉ๐ฎ๐ซ, ๐๐ฎ๐ฅ๐ฒ 04: Reinforcing its commitment to fostering a technology-driven workforce and promoting digital transformation across its operations, Eastern Coalfields Limited, in collaboration with the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Durgapur, organised a one-day Training Programme on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) for its executives on 03rd June, 2026 at Citi Residency, Durgapur.
The programme commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by the dignitaries, symbolising the pursuit of knowledge and innovation, followed by the rendition of the Coal India Limited Corporate Song.
The participants were formally welcomed by Prof. Arvind Choubey, Director, NIT Durgapur, who introduced the programme and highlighted the growing significance of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in driving technological advancements across industries. He underscored the importance of academia-industry collaboration in equipping professionals with emerging technological competencies.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Satish Jha, CMD, ECL, emphasised the transformative role of AI and ML in enhancing operational efficiency, improving decision-making, strengthening mine safety and driving innovation in the coal mining sector. He encouraged the executives to embrace emerging technologies and continuously upgrade their knowledge to meet the evolving demands of the industry.
The technical sessions commenced with an insightful lecture by Dr. Subrata Nandi, Ph.D. (IIT Kharagpur), who introduced the participants to the fundamentals of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. The session provided a comprehensive overview of AI concepts, machine learning techniques and their growing relevance across industrial applications.
Following the lunch break, an interactive session was organised, enabling participants to exchange ideas and engage with the resource persons. The subsequent technical session was delivered by Dr. Sarvanan Chandran, Associate Professor, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, NIT Durgapur, who elaborated on the practical applications of AI and ML with particular emphasis on enhancing mine safety through intelligent AI-based systems. The session showcased how advanced technologies can contribute towards predictive analysis, risk mitigation, and safer mining operations.
After a short tea break, a dedicated participant feedback and interaction session was conducted, during which the executives actively participated by seeking clarifications, sharing perspectives, and discussing practical challenges related to the adoption of AI-driven solutions in the mining sector.
The programme was attended by Shri Gunjan Kumar Sinha, Director (HR), ECL, and Shri Girish Gopinathan Nair, Director (Technical), ECL, in the presence of Departmental Heads, Area General Managers, senior officials of ECL, faculty members of NIT Durgapur, and participating executives.
The programme concluded with a formal Vote of Thanks delivered by Dr. Sarvanan Chandran, who expressed gratitude to the management of ECL, the participating executives, and all stakeholders for their enthusiastic participation and reaffirmed the importance of continued collaboration between academia and industry in building future-ready professionals.